Our students complete 57 hours of doctoral work, including a minimum of 45 hours of coursework and 12 dissertation hours.

The program is divided into four parts, which include:

1. The core 15 hours:

• Communication Research Design (both quantitative and qualitative)
• Seminar in Mass Communication Theory and Theory Construction
• Seminar in Teaching Media Studies
• Advanced Communication Research (quantitative)
• Communication Research: Critical, Cultural & Naturalistic Approaches (qualitative)

2. At least 21 hours of mass communication electives.

3. At least nine hours of electives from another field of study

4. Exam and dissertation, 12 hours.

Students will take oral and written exams to demonstrate a mastery of their field. The written exam covers questions based on the student’s general coursework. The oral exam explores the subjects covered in the written exam.

The dissertation is a substantial research project conducted over the course of enrollment.